The Evolution of Trade and Currency

For millennia, monkeys used barter: a banana for two coconuts. A system that worked

well, until they needed to exchange a large fruit for a handful of berries.

Too complicated and indivisible! ​A more practical means was needed. Along came the coin!

Gold and other metals... small, divisible, and accepted almost everywhere.

Finally, a shared value for all goods, from leaves to vines. Life was simpler,

trade took off. ​But metals were heavy and risky to transport. So,

merchants began depositing gold and receiving a piece of paper in exchange: the "Bank

Note," the certificate of deposit. ​The Banknote was born! From a simple piece